A Sterling Heights man was pistol-whipped and robbed early Sunday at his home, police said.

The man sustained only minor injuries, they said.

Officers were called at about 12:40 a.m. Sunday to the man's home in the area of Acorn Lane near Mound and Hall roads to respond to reports of shots fired, according to authorities.

Police arrived and found a man who had blood on his face and clothing and who told officers he had been robbed, officials said.

The victim told the officers that after he arrived home from work and let his dog out, an unknown man approached and pointed a silver revolver at him.

The suspect ordered the victim into the home, police said.

As they entered, the suspect struck the victim in the face with the revolver's handle, officials said. He then grabbed a pillow case and began filling it with various items from the home, including jewelry and the victim's cellphone. The suspect then took the victim's car keys and headed outside toward the victim's vehicle.

Meanwhile, the victim, a licensed gun owner, retrieved his firearm from a nearby closet and followed the suspect, who was getting ready to drive away in the vehicle, according to police.

The homeowner fired several shots at the suspect, striking the vehicle, they said. The suspect drove off in an unknown direction.

Police said they recovered the vehicle not far from the crime scene.

Officials said they do not know if the suspect was struck by a bullet and they continue to search for him.

Anyone with information about the incident or suspect should call Sterling Heights Police at (586) 446-2825.